Linda Jean Girdler, 77, of Columbia, Kentucky, peacefully moved on to her next adventure on May 13, 2026, more than likely heading straight for a front-row seat at an Elvis Presley concert.

If you knew Linda, you knew she lived to make people laugh. Armed with a brilliant sense of humor and a heart far too big for her chest, she was the rare kind of soul who would quite literally give you the shirt off her back and never dream of asking for a single thing in return. Her happiest moments were spent surrounding herself with family, soaking up the sun at the beach, and tearing up the dance floor. When she wasn't grooving to the music, she could be found tracking down the nearest bingo hall, ready to play anytime she got the chance, or happily listening to her absolute favorite, the King of Rock 'n' Roll.

Linda is reunited in eternity with her beloved husband, Chester Girdler; her three sons, Eddie, Rick, and Chuckie Girdler; and her grandchildren, Brian Broyles and Briana Cook. We like to think they were all waiting for her with the volume turned all the way up and ready to party.

Her legacy of laughter, generosity, and joy lives on through her surviving family: her devoted daughter, Sheila Girdler and partner Allen Davidson; her grandchildren, Amanda Leslie and husband Tim, Alexis Burton, Randy Burton and wife Fleasha, James Girdler, Paige Girdler, and Justin Girdler and wife Keiley. She also leaves behind a proud, lively army of great-grandchildren who brought her endless joy, including Fayelynn and Jessie Ray Cook, alongside fourteen more cherished great-grandkids.

In true Linda fashion, who always wished for joy rather than tears, she is being cremated. The family will host a lively Celebration of Life at a later date to properly honor a woman who gave so much love, mischief, and laughter to the world.

Grissom-Martin Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.